High school conjures various images, thoughts and emotions depending on the person reminiscing. The initial rush of aggravating classes, odd teachers and disgusting lunches are all common denominators when recanting those four pivotal teenage years. However, another interesting facet often lurks in the background undetected until closer inspection. Attire is unquestionably a vital element embedded in the academic process for those wearing uniforms or other school board-approved garments. Everyone remembers what they wore in high school just like they can recant whatever music, films, or cars filled his or her free time. The countless cultural aspects surrounding one’s tenure directly impacted the brands and styles one gravitated toward, regardless of decade. But outside the well-known manufacturers attached to different generations, schools actually produced admirable designs on their own accord. Although it may seem odd upon initial thought, pieces, especially those produced pre-2000, boast enviable graphic design work that all levels of fashion have imitated. Countless brands flip the classic P.E. shirt with the blank space for the student’s name. Physical education class produced an iconic American garment despite the lackluster memories associated with sweaty outings and foul-smelling locker rooms (the occasional fist fights were amazing). Athletics always account for interesting merchandise, and most schools have an abundance of programs with corresponding gear. All activities considered, track and field reigns as a personal favorite. The winged foot representing the magical sandals worn by Hermes and Mercury descended from the mythological beings and became synonymous with track sports. (In terms of modern brands, Noah consistently utilizes the winged foot and other related imagery with connections to high school athletics.) The vast majority of this school-created clothing has that loveable quality innate to hand-drawn graphics. There’s a slightly crude and amateurish feel stemming from the human error that can’t be replicated through computer-assisted renderings. Kapital undoubtedly plays off this sentiment by creating products with thoughtful irregularities and flaws people now associate with high-quality Japanese craftsmanship–countless Japanese brands reference vintage styles from American high schools and colleges. But, it feels completely natural because a 15-year-old kid is wearing it while daydreaming in English class instead of a fashion house attempting to recontextualize something deemed mundane and unspectacular. The human element makes the imagery interesting. (The slightly offset letters and number on the Cannelton hoodie are perfect mistakes.) Chances are students, faculty, or parent volunteers played some role in creating these pieces, definitely adding a heightened element of care and pride. Graphics aside, schools started off on a great note by selecting blanks that are now treasured by aficionados for the fit, style and colors. Russell and Champion seemed extremely viable options because of the admirable quality, low price point and historical connection to sports. Those square tags boasting Russell’s falcon head or Champion’s emblem are the perfect subtle additions that peak collectors’ interest. It’s refreshing to see these companies’ products in an original context. The retro sports trend plastering oversized logos on every imaginable product dilutes how interesting these school renditions are. (How many “fashion” collaborations has Champion done in the last decade?) Similar to military or outdoor garb, it’s always more intriguing to envision these items utilized in the intended setting and capacity. I think a dangerous line can be crossed when discussing an item’s “essence” or “soul, but these garments embody a unique culmination of cultural practices far removed from the modern fashion world. No high school football coach or equipment manager is personally heat transferring graphics to the team’s sweatshirts in 2019. Amateurish graphics, recognizable subject matter and vibrant blanks combined to form things far more interesting than the “R15E UP” sold during my 2015 commencement.
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AuthorMax Theriot Archives
November 2019
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